Ballfield project at community park moves forward

Work on the Lehman Township Community Park took another step forward Nov. 9 when 10 contractors were briefed at the municipal building on their bidding for the project to create ballfields and a parking area just beyond the entrance gate.

Work on the Lehman Township Community Park took another step forward Nov. 9 when 10 contractors were briefed at the municipal building on their bidding for the project to create ballfields and a parking area just beyond the entrance gate.

"This is the first time I've sat in on a pre-bidding," said township Supervisor Paul Menditto, who later added, "We've waited for this for a long time."

The extensive permitting process led to the delays.

John Tressler of Boucher and James Engineering Consultants led the briefing, which was brief — approximately 15 minutes.

Bids open Nov. 25 and close Dec. 5, the date the Board of Supervisors will make its decision at its bimonthly meeting on Dec. 5. Work is expected to begin shortly after that sometime next month, depending on weather conditions, and conclude in May.

Tressler took only one question — the estimated cost of the project. "We have a figure, but we're not sharing that," Tressler said with a knowing smile.

"There's a lot of material on site," said Tressler, referring to the soil covering piled in the project area. "I believe based on the material there you will bring it up to site, bring up the grading with drainage improvements and stormwater runoff. There will be a retaining wall and fill, a change (in plans) at the last minute."

Tressler, who also oversaw the recently unveiled Cherry Creek Loop Trail linking Smithfield Township and Delaware Water Gap borough, reminded contractors that a power line will be coming through.

"We're looking at seeing it buried during this process but talks on that stopped during the storm," Tressler said. "And we're looking at putting in vegetation."

The company's website had taken only two questions from contractors on the project. Thursday was the last date the company was taking electronically sent questions.